The Christian and Public Worship (7) God’s Word in the Assembly

Our Best in Worship As in every aspect of our lives as Christians, God deserves our best efforts in our worship to Him Every act of worship must be done “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24) Thus far we have addressed the Lord’s Supper, giving, singing and prayer Today we address our God’s word in our assembly

God’s Word in our Assemblies How can we know what to do if we don’t have His word? Acts 2:42 Acts 20:7, Paul preached till midnight. 1 Corinthians 14:3-4,… 1 Thessalonians 5:27 Colossians 4:16

God’s Word in our Assemblies The nature of God’s word It IS the word of God! Much of the “truth” of preaching is that what we preach is TRUTH! Matthew 28:18 John 17:17 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Psalm 19:7

God’s Word in our Assemblies Preach the word! Romans 10:14-17 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word In season and out of season Reprove, rebuke and exhort

God’s Word in our Assemblies Preach the whole counsel of God Acts 20:27 2 Timothy 2:15, rightly dividing the word of truth

God’s Word in our Assemblies Bible reading A fundamental part of the worship of Israel. Cf. Luke 4:16-18 1 Thess. 5:27 1 Peter 4:11, realization God is speaking 1 Timothy 4:13

God’s Word in our Assemblies Bible reading Consider introducing the context. Cf. Nehemiah 8:8 Bible reading reminds that we are here to hear what God has to say. It is not about what I think or a commentary.

God’s Word in our Assemblies Bible classes Another way to learn God’s word coming together. We will discuss this in our next lesson!

God’s Word in our Assemblies Listening to God’s word When the Bible is read or taught, someone needs to hear. Cf. 1 Corinthians 14 Romans 10:17, faith comes by hearing the word of God. Matthew 11:15, 13:9 – “He who has an ear, let him hear.” We need to listen well!

God’s Word in Spirit Various attitudes needed Presented in love - Ephesians 4:15 It is about God’s word, not how talented we are - 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 Received in faith – 1 Thess. 2:13, Heb. 11:6

God’s Word in Spirit Various attitudes needed Received with meekness and humility - James 1:21, Acts 17:11 Intend to apply it – James 1:22-23, Matthew 7:24…

Handling God’s Word Well Preachers and teachers Make the message about His word! 1 Peter 4:11 Know what you are talking about – 2 Timothy 2:15 Document what you are saying with scripture (Don’t assume others know where it is at or about the account)

Handling God’s Word Well Preachers and teachers Keep it in proper context 2 Peter 3:16, 2 Timothy 2:15 Practice presenting your message – be familiar with your message Speak loudly and clearly and with confidence! Live what you preach - Romans 2:21-24, 1 Timothy 4:16

Handling God’s Word Well Reading God’s Word Much of what has been said applies here as well Read it ahead of time and beware of the context IF helpful, print our your text (larger, etc.) Read loudly and confidently Use inflection (but not drama)

Handling God’s Word Well Listening to God’s Word Show respect! Cf. Nehemiah 8:5 Be ready to listen – Acts 10:33, Ezra 7:10 – prepare you heart to seek the law of the Lord, Acts 17:11

Handling God’s Word Well Listening to God’s Word Pay attention. Listen well! It requires mental effort to concentrate! Open your Bibles! Acts 17:11 Take notes (or follow along) Be careful of distractions, especially at the end as we are preparing to sing invitation song.

Are we giving God our very best as we worship Him? God’s word is powerful! Are we giving God our very best as we worship Him?